Ofsted July 2026
Dear Parents and Carers,
I am writing to share some truly extraordinary news with you today. Following our recent inspection, we have received our official Ofsted report, and I am bursting with pride to share the results with our entire school community.
Our school has been awarded the ‘Strong’ standard across all areas of judgement.
To put the scale of this achievement into context, Ofsted’s new ‘Strong’ designation represents a benchmark of excellence that goes beyond the previous ‘Outstanding’ standard. It is estimated that only 2 to 3% of schools nationally achieve this level of distinction (59 schools currently across the country - Sept 2026). Reaching this standard across every single aspect of our provision is a historic milestone for our school.
Jennifer Steel (service director for education, inclusion and integration for North East Lincolnshire) highlighted the significance of this moment, noting that “to see the school achieve strong standard across all areas of judgement is truly an incredible achievement.”
While the report reflects high academic expectations, what warms my heart most are the comments highlighting the heart and soul of our school:
“Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary, they are polite, respectful and show kindness to others.”
“Relationships between staff and pupils are extremely positive.”
“Staff know pupils’ needs remarkably well.”
“Leaders’ new approach to the teaching of the early years develops curiosity.”
“Leaders are passionate about providing carefully considered support to pupils.”
Every single day, I am immensely proud of our children for their hard work, their enthusiasm for learning, and the kindness they show one another. This official recognition from Ofsted validates what we see happening in our classrooms every day.
The recommendation for next steps is to continue to develop our unique approach to the Early Years and share this strong practise with schools far and wide. Our aim over the next few years is to become a Hub school for developing effective early years practise beyond our school gates.
An achievement of this magnitude does not happen by chance. It is a direct testament to our entire, incredible staff team, whose unwavering passion, dedication, and care ensure that every child is known, supported, and inspired to thrive.
Under Ofsted’s framework, the step above a ‘Strong’ standard is ‘Exceptional’—a standard reserved for schools whose practice is among the very best nationally and who actively share their expertise to lift up other settings.
To reach that highest tier, a school must demonstrate that its impact extends beyond its own gates by leading network training, supporting other leadership teams, and hosting visiting educators. We are already well on our way: we regularly welcome visiting schools and leaders from outside our area who come to see the transformational impact of our approach in action, and we continue to share our best practices and training to help shape education beyond our own doors. Reaching ‘Strong’ across every single category shows that the foundation we have built is truly exceptional in practice.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support, partnership, and trust. This success and remarkable achievement belongs to all of us.
With warmest wishes and immense pride,
Hannah Gray
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Signhills Infant Academy - Ofsted Report July 2026 |
[pdf 230KB] |
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